For many, the filename George Benson Al Jarreau - Givin' It Up -2006- - FLAC -.rar represents a specific era of digital music collecting. It harkens back to a time of dedicated music blogs, private trackers, and the thrill of finding a perfect log/cue rip.
It is worth noting that this album was a critical success, winning the Grammy Award for Best Traditional R&B Vocal Performance for "God Bless The Child." Yet, in the digital ether, it remains a "whale" hunt for jazz enthusiasts.
If you have the opportunity to listen to this album, do yourself a favor: play it on a decent sound system. Listen to the interplay on "’Long Come Tutu," where they trade fours with a playfulness that only forty years of friendship can breed.
One of the reasons collectors are still searching for this .rar archive nearly two decades later is the tracklist. It is a stunning blend of covers and originals that showcase the chemistry between the two stars.
1. "Breezin'" The album opens with a reimagining of Benson’s signature hit. This time, Jarreau adds fresh lyrics and vocal textures. In FLAC, the subtle hi-hat work and the warmth of the acoustic guitar intro are tactile—you can almost feel the wood of the instrument.
2. "Mornin'" Jarreau’s 1983 hit gets a facelift. The tempo is slightly more laid back, driven by Benson’s rhythmic comping. The lossless format highlights the "air" in the recording—the breathiness of Jarreau’s vocals and the decay of the snare. For many, the filename George Benson Al Jarreau
3. "God Bless The Child" Perhaps the standout track. Featuring the incomparable Jill Scott and the legendary Herbie Hancock on piano, this is a spiritual, slow-burning masterpiece. A low-bitrate MP3 would muddle the subtle Rhodes chords and the intricate vocal harmonies, but a FLAC rip preserves the intimacy of the performance. You hear the fingers sliding on the strings; you hear the room.
4. "Summer Breeze" & "Ordinary People" The album surprised fans by including a cover of John Legend’s "Ordinary People." The arrangement strips the song down to its emotional core. Their rendition of Seals & Crofts' "Summer Breeze" transforms the soft rock classic into a smooth jazz staple, driven by a groove that demands high-quality speakers to fully appreciate the bass depth.
Nearly 20 years later, Givin' It Up stands as a testament to what happens when two virtuosos decide to have fun. It isn't a competition; it is a celebration.
Whether you are a die-hard Benson fan looking to complete your lossless collection, or a newcomer who stumbled upon the .rar link in a forum, this album is a mandatory listen. It reminds us that while trends in music change, the combination of great songs, elite vocals, and world-class guitar playing is timeless.
Have you listened to the 2006 pressing? Let us know in the comments which track you think benefits most from the lossless treatment. If you have the opportunity to listen to
Album Review: Givin' It Up (2006) - A Jazz Legacy
"Givin' It Up" is a collaborative album by two jazz legends, George Benson and Al Jarreau, released in 2006. This album is a testament to their enduring talent and chemistry as musicians. The album features a mix of jazz standards, original compositions, and soulful ballads, showcasing the virtuosity of both artists.
Musical Highlights
The album opens with the title track "Givin' It Up," a soulful rendition that sets the tone for the rest of the album. George Benson's signature guitar playing and Al Jarreau's smooth vocals blend seamlessly, creating a captivating listening experience. The album also features a beautiful rendition of the classic song "Let's Face the Music and Dance," which highlights the duo's ability to reinterpret timeless standards.
Vocal and Instrumental Performance
Both George Benson and Al Jarreau deliver outstanding performances throughout the album. Benson's guitar playing is as effortless as ever, with his signature blend of melodic phrasing and harmonic sophistication. Jarreau's vocals are equally impressive, conveying a deep sense of emotion and intimacy.
Production and Sound Quality
The album's production is polished and well-balanced, with a warm and intimate sound that suits the jazz genre. The FLAC format ensures that the audio quality is exceptional, with crisp and clear instrumentation.
Conclusion
"Givin' It Up" is a remarkable album that showcases the talents of two jazz legends. The album's blend of jazz, soul, and R&B creates a unique listening experience that will appeal to fans of both George Benson and Al Jarreau. If you're looking for a sophisticated and soulful jazz album, "Givin' It Up" is an excellent choice. It is a stunning blend of covers and
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
Recommendation: This album is a must-listen for fans of jazz, soul, and R&B. If you enjoy artists like George Benson, Al Jarreau, and other jazz legends, you'll appreciate the musicality and chemistry on display in "Givin' It Up".